Education is the greatest gift of all

Quality education includes a positive overall experience and access to the best educational resources and opportunities. Based on these principles, the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians has been working with area schools and community educational groups to improve access to comprehensive education programs and opportunities for success for all regardless of economic or ethnic background. As we celebrate National Native American Heritage Month, we recognize the value and importance of promoting awareness and education for Native American cultural studies.

In January 2011, I was honored to be the first California Native American appointed to the State Board of Education. This was not only a significant milestone for California tribal people but also a role in which we can be instrumental in bringing needed change, as the Board of Education is the governing and policy-making body that sets statewide K-12 education policies, including standards, instructional materials, assessment and accountability.

Education is a topic that is deeply important to the San Manuel community. Many of our people grew up right here in the Inland Empire and saw that we didnât need to go far to find wonderful colleges and universities. However, we also know firsthand that the road to higher education is not always smooth and easy but can be filled with seemingly countless struggles and obstacles. There may be some who doubt your abilities along the way. But if you maintain your focus, you will be rewarded.

Education opens the door to the world. It serves as a catalyst for growth as individuals, and educational attainment builds strength and confidence. While it would be wonderful if the ability to learn and succeed was never limited by geography, ethnic background, socioeconomic status or age, as we know, many students begin their schooling in a disadvantaged state.

Because we so strongly believe that a quality education should be accessible for all Californians, the San Manuel Band has worked to be a contributor to an improved state of education in this area. We have committed funding support for at-risk students at Crafton Hills College and the American Indian College Fund, and created a scholarship for the Valley-Bound Commitment Program at San Bernardino Valley College that pays for local studentsâ tuition and expenses such as books, parking and student fees for their first year.

Our most recent partnership with the University of Redlands established a Native American Studies program that will provide opportunities for learning about Native history and cultures that can benefit all students and communities. This partnership will also provide access to education for older students who want to continue pursuit of their higher educational goals.

Additionally, collaboration with Claremont Graduate University created a one-year course that provides for San Manuel tribal government and casino employees to earn a certificate in tribal government.

Our longstanding university partnership with Cal-State University San Bernardino allows us to work closely with the school to train teachers, encourage awareness of Native American issues and host cultural events. This relationship has produced significant educational and community benefits.

And because you are never too old to pursue education and training that can improve your skills and knowledge, San Manuel offers a program that allows tribal members, employees and employeesâ immediate family members to pursue higher education that will enhance their capabilities.

People often ask, âHow does San Manuel decide where and how to contribute within the community?â Naturally, this is a difficult task when there are so many wonderful and valuable causes and organizations here locally. While it is impossible to quantify which charitable giving projects will have the greatest impacts on the Inland Empire and our community, the creation of scholarships, funding for schools, career training and other avenues for educational support means that our young people and those interested in higher education will have increased opportunities and therefore hope for a better world and Inland Empire for future generations. This is our hope for our children and for our local communities.

James Ramos, M.B.A., is the chairman of the San Manuel Band of Serrano Mission Indians. He is also chairman of the California Native American Heritage Commission, member of the California State Board of Education and trustee of the San Bernardino Community College Board of Trustees.

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